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#26
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 177
Likes: 0
From: Bunkie, Louisiana
Bikes: Specialized Roubaix
Come to Louisiana for a couple of weeks, then go home. You'll realize what heat is lol. Just hydrate, you'll be fine. I commute to work at 6:30am and over here it's getting pretty warm at that time. No way I would ride at 1pm. Oh yea, if you stay in the heat enough you'll get use to it.
#27
always rides with luggage
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 2,109
Likes: 20
From: KIGX
Bikes: 2007 Trek SU100, 2009 Fantom CX, 2012 Fantom Cross Uno, Bakfiets
ice cold YooHoo?
__________________
--Ben
2006 Trek SU100, 2009 Motobecane Fantom CX, 2011 Motobecane Fantom Cross Uno, and a Bakfiets
Previously: 2000 Trek 4500 (2000-2003), 2003 Novara Randonee (2003-2006), 2003 Giant Rainier (2003-2008), 2005 Xootr Swift (2005-2007), 2007 Nashbar 1x9 (2007-2011), 2011 Windsor Shetland (2011-2014), 2008 Citizen Folder (2015)
Non-Bike hardware: MX Linux / BunsenLabs Linux / Raspbian / Mac OS 10.6 / Android 7
--Ben
2006 Trek SU100, 2009 Motobecane Fantom CX, 2011 Motobecane Fantom Cross Uno, and a Bakfiets
Previously: 2000 Trek 4500 (2000-2003), 2003 Novara Randonee (2003-2006), 2003 Giant Rainier (2003-2008), 2005 Xootr Swift (2005-2007), 2007 Nashbar 1x9 (2007-2011), 2011 Windsor Shetland (2011-2014), 2008 Citizen Folder (2015)
Non-Bike hardware: MX Linux / BunsenLabs Linux / Raspbian / Mac OS 10.6 / Android 7
#29
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 401
Likes: 0
As an example: When wearing wick clothes at a red light you sweat and the wicking properties cant keep up. But when the light turns green and you take off you get refreshed as the breeze blows through your wet shirt. It doesn't last long though in polyester. You dry off quick. But with cotton ..... :>)
It's winter when you must have clothes with wicking properties; otherwise you'd freeze.
Matt
Last edited by Hangtownmatt; 06-26-13 at 09:20 PM.
#30
Delusions of Grandeur
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 208
Likes: 0
From: East Texas
Bikes: '92 Specialized Crossroads, '79 Schwinn Varsity, '72 Schwinn Speedster
Here in East Texas the humidity feels, at times your trying to breath under water... It's something you just never get used to, you learn to tolerate.. I'm in agreement with others drink plenty of fluids and slow down...
#31
Senior Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 8,896
Likes: 7
From: Raleigh, NC
Bikes: Waterford RST-22, Bob Jackson World Tour, Ritchey Breakaway Cross, Soma Saga, De Bernardi SL, Specialized Sequoia
Drinking more water, wearing wicking clothes, staying in the shade as much as possible can all help. However, the bottom line is that you just have to acclimate to the heat and humidity. The first week of 90+ temps is always hard for me, and our humidity in NC is almost always high, so it can be tough in early summer. You get used to it after a few weeks and it merely becomes miserable rather than unbearable.
#32
Banned
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 660
Likes: 0
From: West Coast of Wisconsin
Bikes: 2011 Surly LHT 2005 LeMond Zurich
The way I understand it, the swamp cooler thing depends on low humidity....a sweat soaked cotton shirt in high humidity will never evaporate rapidly enough to have a cooling effect
#33
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 7,391
Likes: 13
From: Memphis TN area
Bikes: 2011 Felt Z85 (road/commuter), 2006 Marin Pine Mountain (utility/commuter E-bike), 1995 KHS Alite 1000 (gravel grinder)
Today - 99 with a heat index of 105... humidity above 70% most of the day ughhhh
Next week though, highs in the mid-upper 80's all week, only 83 on Sunday!
Next week though, highs in the mid-upper 80's all week, only 83 on Sunday!
#34
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 401
Likes: 0
#35
Senior Member

Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 919
Likes: 15
From: South Austin, Texas
Bikes: 2010 Origin8 CX700, 2003 Cannondale Backroads Cross Country, 1997 Trek mtn steel frame converted commuter/tourer, 1983 Univega Sportour, 2010 Surly LHT, Others...
104 F is the predication here, today.
And many other days.
Just stay acclimated to the temps in which you ride........
Drink water, lots.
And many other days.
Just stay acclimated to the temps in which you ride........
Drink water, lots.
#36
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 123
Likes: 0
From: NorCal
Bikes: Public D8, Marin Hamilton 29er, (stolen: Trek 7.3, Electra Amsterdam)
For me:
long, loose, breathable.
-Long sleeves, pants, cover your neck (a wet bandana works wonders there). I like cotton for the breathability and looseness. *I* am much more comfortable with a loose fitting long sleeved shirt flapping around me in the heat, than a tight "wicking" jersey. But different strokes for different folks. What I find helps more than anything (except water) is keeping the sun off and the air moving.
Drink when you're thirsty. Don't be afraid to slow down or just take a short break in the shade.
Don't forget the sunscreen
long, loose, breathable.
-Long sleeves, pants, cover your neck (a wet bandana works wonders there). I like cotton for the breathability and looseness. *I* am much more comfortable with a loose fitting long sleeved shirt flapping around me in the heat, than a tight "wicking" jersey. But different strokes for different folks. What I find helps more than anything (except water) is keeping the sun off and the air moving.
Drink when you're thirsty. Don't be afraid to slow down or just take a short break in the shade.
Don't forget the sunscreen
#38
always rides with luggage
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 2,109
Likes: 20
From: KIGX
Bikes: 2007 Trek SU100, 2009 Fantom CX, 2012 Fantom Cross Uno, Bakfiets
Now that I have moved to NC from the bay area, it helps to channel my childhood in the inland empire, where it was often 80F at breakfast in the summer. Just go outside and play and deal with it.
__________________
--Ben
2006 Trek SU100, 2009 Motobecane Fantom CX, 2011 Motobecane Fantom Cross Uno, and a Bakfiets
Previously: 2000 Trek 4500 (2000-2003), 2003 Novara Randonee (2003-2006), 2003 Giant Rainier (2003-2008), 2005 Xootr Swift (2005-2007), 2007 Nashbar 1x9 (2007-2011), 2011 Windsor Shetland (2011-2014), 2008 Citizen Folder (2015)
Non-Bike hardware: MX Linux / BunsenLabs Linux / Raspbian / Mac OS 10.6 / Android 7
--Ben
2006 Trek SU100, 2009 Motobecane Fantom CX, 2011 Motobecane Fantom Cross Uno, and a Bakfiets
Previously: 2000 Trek 4500 (2000-2003), 2003 Novara Randonee (2003-2006), 2003 Giant Rainier (2003-2008), 2005 Xootr Swift (2005-2007), 2007 Nashbar 1x9 (2007-2011), 2011 Windsor Shetland (2011-2014), 2008 Citizen Folder (2015)
Non-Bike hardware: MX Linux / BunsenLabs Linux / Raspbian / Mac OS 10.6 / Android 7
#39
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 6,144
Likes: 4
From: cherry hill, nj
I don't agree. I think a cotton shirt is advantageous in hot weather. A wet shirt functions like a swamp cooler. How good would a swamp cooler function with a dry filter?
As an example: When wearing wick clothes at a red light you sweat and the wicking properties cant keep up. But when the light turns green and you take off you get refreshed as the breeze blows through your wet shirt. It doesn't last long though in polyester. You dry off quick. But with cotton ..... :>)
It's winter when you must have clothes with wicking properties; otherwise you'd freeze.
Matt
As an example: When wearing wick clothes at a red light you sweat and the wicking properties cant keep up. But when the light turns green and you take off you get refreshed as the breeze blows through your wet shirt. It doesn't last long though in polyester. You dry off quick. But with cotton ..... :>)
It's winter when you must have clothes with wicking properties; otherwise you'd freeze.
Matt
#41
tougher than a boiled owl
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,125
Likes: 1
From: Rocky Coast of Maine
Bikes: Fetish Cycles Fixation / Fuji S12S / Gary Fisher MTB / Raleigh Grand Prix / Ross Professional / Kent comfort cruiser
Heat is much harder to deal with than the cold. Like others mentioned, you have to learn to tolerate it as you really cant get used to it or change the fact that it will get hot in the summer. I cant give much advice here as our weather is always good in northern New England. We have those occasional days of upper 80s and high humidity but for the most part, every morning commute is never above the 60s. The afternoon commute can be warm but nothing like what you guys have to put up with in the south. Not anxious for snow and cold yet though.
#42
Senior Member

Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 919
Likes: 15
From: South Austin, Texas
Bikes: 2010 Origin8 CX700, 2003 Cannondale Backroads Cross Country, 1997 Trek mtn steel frame converted commuter/tourer, 1983 Univega Sportour, 2010 Surly LHT, Others...
106 predicted high tomorrow, here.
Still 92 at 10:30pm.
Surprisingly acclimated, though.
Will be riding in the heat of the day again, mañana.
Good news is that I saw a female cyclist leaving downtown on Wed afternoon, wearing teeniny running shorts, bikini top, helmet, and cycling sandals. Taking the lane on the Congress Bridge in rush hour on her commuter Surly w/ panniers. Good to see.
Also, yesterday, my wife rode everywhere in her bikini, helmet, and Vibram FiveFingers. She said it was too hot for anything else. Rode all over town and to her checkup/appt at her dr.'s.
At least we have women cycling in the heat here in austin......
Tips, many already covered in this thread, from PeopleForBikes.
Still 92 at 10:30pm.
Surprisingly acclimated, though.
Will be riding in the heat of the day again, mañana.
Good news is that I saw a female cyclist leaving downtown on Wed afternoon, wearing teeniny running shorts, bikini top, helmet, and cycling sandals. Taking the lane on the Congress Bridge in rush hour on her commuter Surly w/ panniers. Good to see.
Also, yesterday, my wife rode everywhere in her bikini, helmet, and Vibram FiveFingers. She said it was too hot for anything else. Rode all over town and to her checkup/appt at her dr.'s.
At least we have women cycling in the heat here in austin......
Tips, many already covered in this thread, from PeopleForBikes.
Last edited by AusTexMurf; 06-28-13 at 08:19 AM.
#43
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 129
Likes: 0
From: St. Pete, Fl
Bikes: Trek 700 (2000ish), 88 Schwinn Voyaguer, late 80's-ish lugged Spalding mountain bike
I'm a clyde commuter here in Tampa Bay. I HATE our summer weather (though February is pretty F...ing nice!), so I have carefully considered my summer commuting outfit. I wear a polyester workout top similar to the C9's though I got mine at Walmart (Target doesn't carry my size usually). I wear Lycra bib shorts from Aerotech, and I wear closed toe sandals. The kind that are sort of a hybrid between walking shoes and sandals.
As a side note, I use my iPhone to keep track of mileage. A few weeks ago before it got really hot like it is now I was trying to convince myself that it wasn't that bad (riding home from class at 1pm), when my phone informed me that it was going to shut down because it was overheating!. Its not so bad here until about 11, but by about 12:30 until 6 it just isn't fun.
As a side note, I use my iPhone to keep track of mileage. A few weeks ago before it got really hot like it is now I was trying to convince myself that it wasn't that bad (riding home from class at 1pm), when my phone informed me that it was going to shut down because it was overheating!. Its not so bad here until about 11, but by about 12:30 until 6 it just isn't fun.
#46
Disco Infiltrator




Joined: May 2013
Posts: 15,350
Likes: 3,551
From: Folsom CA
Bikes: Stormchaser, Paramount, Tilt, Samba tandem
We just got this in our work inboxes... good stuff.
The note about getting acclimated is a good one. It's hard to do when you work in the A/C all day and then step outside and it's thirty degrees hotter.
The note about getting acclimated is a good one. It's hard to do when you work in the A/C all day and then step outside and it's thirty degrees hotter.
To All,
The National Weather Service is predicting an extended period of hot weather in the Sacramento area beginning today through the middle of next week, with temperatures over 100°F each day. In addition an Excessive Heat Watch is forecast for Sunday through Tuesday. This indicates the heat will be coupled with high humidity, which will increase the likelihood of heat illness.
The first heat wave of the season serves as a reminder that it is critical for all employees to understand the dangers of heat-related illness, how to recognize the symptoms, and to learn ways to avoid it. Remember also that it takes time to acclimatize your body to hot weather, and many heat stress symptoms are more common during these first hot days of summer.
Symptoms of Heat Illness:
Heat Cramps
If someone is exhibiting symptoms of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, immediately move them to a cool shaded area, give them small amounts of water, cool them down with wet cloths, and notify Health Services. If someone shows symptoms of Heat Stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.
How To Prevent Heat Illness:
Here is a link to an OSHA quick reference card on heat illness, which you can print out:
https://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3154.pdf
The National Weather Service is predicting an extended period of hot weather in the Sacramento area beginning today through the middle of next week, with temperatures over 100°F each day. In addition an Excessive Heat Watch is forecast for Sunday through Tuesday. This indicates the heat will be coupled with high humidity, which will increase the likelihood of heat illness.
The first heat wave of the season serves as a reminder that it is critical for all employees to understand the dangers of heat-related illness, how to recognize the symptoms, and to learn ways to avoid it. Remember also that it takes time to acclimatize your body to hot weather, and many heat stress symptoms are more common during these first hot days of summer.
Symptoms of Heat Illness:
Heat Cramps
- Caused by a loss or imbalance of electrolytes in the body due to excessive sweating
- Symptoms include muscle spasms or pain in arms, calves, or abdomen
- Do not usually result in permanent damage
- Can be alleviated by replacing electrolytes by drinking sports drinks and eating foods rich in potassium, like bananas
- Caused by a loss of blood volume due to excessive sweating
- Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, fainting, fatigue, nausea, dark colored urine due to dehydration. The body temperature is usually 100-104°F.
- Profuse sweating is present
- Heat Exhaustion is not in itself life threatening, but if left untreated it can progress to Heat Stroke
- A LIFE THREATENING CONDITION
- Caused by breakdown of the body’s natural heat regulation system (sweating), and a body temperature over 104°F.
- Symptoms include hot and dry skin, confusion or delirium, rapid shallow breathing, seizures, and unconsciousness
- REQUIRES IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION
If someone is exhibiting symptoms of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, immediately move them to a cool shaded area, give them small amounts of water, cool them down with wet cloths, and notify Health Services. If someone shows symptoms of Heat Stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.
How To Prevent Heat Illness:
- Acclimation – you are more susceptible to heat illness if you have not been exposed to hot weather recently. It takes 7-14 days to get used to the heat. Take extra precautions to access water, rest, and shade.
- Drink plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty. A good rule of thumb is to drink a cup of water every 15 minutes. Do not try to “catch up” by drinking large quantities of water at one time.
- Alcohol, caffeine, and certain prescription drugs can increase the likelihood of heat illness. Avoid consuming alcohol and caffeine starting 24 hours before an expected heat event. Consult your doctor about possible effects of prescription drugs you are taking.
- DO NOT drink “energy” beverages or mistake them for sports drinks. Energy beverages contain caffeine and taurine, which can both worsen heat illness.
- Try to time outdoor activity during the morning hours.
- Take frequent rest and shade breaks. Short breaks every 15 minutes are preferable to infrequent longer breaks.
- Wear lightweight, loose fitting, light colored clothes and wide brimmed hats.
- Pay attention to heat stress even if you spend most of your time in an office environment. Employees who have to walk between buildings on hot days are also susceptible to heat illness.
- Practice the “Buddy System”; watch out for each other when working in the heat.
Here is a link to an OSHA quick reference card on heat illness, which you can print out:
https://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3154.pdf
#48
I'm a clyde commuter here in Tampa Bay. I HATE our summer weather (though February is pretty F...ing nice!), so I have carefully considered my summer commuting outfit. I wear a polyester workout top similar to the C9's though I got mine at Walmart (Target doesn't carry my size usually).
#50
Senior Member

Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 2,299
Likes: 16



